If you are discussing lobster, then you must be talking about Maine.  The farthest northeast state bordering Canada.  It is a very lush state covered in trees. Along the rocky coast lines, you will encounter some magnificent views and harbor towns.   And of course you must watch out for moose crossings along the way.  I’ve never been to Maine before so this was a discovery trip for me. Brewer and Bangor are great towns separated mainly by the Penobscot river.  There are great restaurants along the banks that you can get, yes you guessed it, LOBSTER.  And I did.  High Tide restaurant had the best and at a reasonable price.  Another great spot was the Mason Brewery.  A dog friendly spot also with a great view of the river.  We walked along the banks on a paved walking path that was beautifully maintained and spotted with garden spots for your relaxation.  If you head further south to the eastern coast you will find a more notable place called Bar Harbor (Baaa Hayba as they pronounce it). We decided since this place had several things we wanted to encounter that we would rent a little dog friendly cottage to stay a few days.  Home to a beautiful harbor and Acadia National Park, adventures awaited us. We walked through the bustling towns tight sidewalks taking in all the sights and sounds.  In the center is a lush green park where people could hang out and enjoy the shade. We decided we wanted to view things from the water so we decided to take a cruise on an old “Schooner” boat.   A sunset cruise on this massive 4 sail vessel.  And you guessed it, it was also dog friendly.  Calli had her first boat ride ever.  I will say that the aluminum gang plank down to the boat was steep as were the open metal steps up to the boat were and a bit daunting.  But Calli and I just kept looking forward and we managed to master this task.  On the boat we met many a people from all over and they were amazed at how well behaved our pup was. (us maybe not so much…LOL).  A delightful evening, perfect ride and the sunset that was picturesque.  Dis-embarking was as much the challenge for Calli and I, but again, together we got it done.  Our cottage was amazing with even a small kitchen.  Outside they had a gathering area where we sat by their fire pit.  This was a great find and close to town. Next day we ventured to Acadia National Park.  Best known for Cadillac Mountain. The highest mountain on the eastern seaboard. From March 6^th to October 7^th the summit is the first place in the US to see the sunrise. Since the park can get very busy and parking at the summit is limited, you must secure a ticket for a specific time ahead of time.  Which we did.  As we drove up the mountain the views were just spectacular. Once at the top we parked and began our traverse over the rocks from one side to the other taking in this majestic place.  They say you can see clear to Canada.  You find yourself a spot to just sit and take it all in.  We literally could have sat there forever especially on such a beautiful day. Pictures just cannot capture what we saw or felt. We had to move on, but the memory of this place will certainly stay with us.

 Before our stay in Bar Harbor was over, we again had to get in some more lobster so off to a special spot on the marina.  Luckily for us, the rain held off until the morning we were leaving.  And boy did it rain.  Safely back at our camping spot, we could not but reminisce about what a great trip this was.

We were not done with Maine yet, and we got in a day of golf, moved on to yet another beautiful mountain Campground, a “Harvest Host” night stay at a brewery with a “leash free dog policy,” which enabled Calli to run free with the other dogs.  She had a blast and listened so well.  We were so proud of her.  Then settled into our last Maine stop in Saco Maine.  This is near Old Orchard beach which is very well-known seaside town.  It was not what Kevin had remembered however.  For me, it reminded me a little of Seaside NJ.  Lots of carnival type rides, games and pizza and fried food places. Needless to say, we took a walk around and then left.  We then decided that Kennebunk may be a better spot for us. Unfortunately, the day proceeded to become a monsoon just as we arrived there.  Having Calli with us we had to depart, but knew we would return another day. Which we did, and were met by our friends Ray and Karen from New Hampshire for the day.   The small shops and the marina were quaint and we had the most amazing day to enjoy it.   We even enjoyed a libation on a boat that they grounded and made into a restaurant.  We so appreciate it when friends not only let us visit them, but they take time out to take a venture out to join us.

Our last days in Maine brought us a 5-mile hike along a paved trail and then the following day a 10+mile bike trail ride to Portland MA.  This was with Calli in tow in her “doggy bike buggy.”  Looks fun right?  It was amazing and her first long ride which she did great.  For me, it meant hauling another 65 lbs. of dog and buggy along. Which you think, well it just rolls along with you.  I wish.  Good thing my legs are much stronger now as this was a task. Especially on hills.  I compare it to those weightlifters that strap that truck tire to them and drag it.  LOL.  Perhaps that is an exaggeration, but it was a challenge. Once we reached Portland, we sat for a bit to take in the Bug Lighthouse and the boats sailing about. Breathtaking! A great ride and another great day of adventures.

 Leaving the Maine horizon in the rearview, we can take along some wonderful memories……and lobster “tales.”      Vamoose!